The
Clairemont Times Serving Clairemont, Bay Park, Linda Vista & Kearny Mesa
V3.E10
News of the Neighborhoods
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OCTOBER 2013
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50 years on the Mesa: San Diego Mesa College Kicks off its 50th Anniversary Year with Homecoming
Ariel view of Mesa College, 2012, with the Math+Science Complex rising in the center of campus. The facility opens for classes this Spring of 2014.
Homecoming Calls Former Olympians Back to Mesa College Former cheerleader and Ms. Senior San Diego 2012, Jeanne Lenhart, is Alumni Honoree Mesa College kicks off its 50th anniversary with a fun and fabulous Homecoming celebration. Graduates and neighbors can in join in the fun at 5:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 19, before a game against Southwestern College at the Merrill Douglas Stadium. Festivities include a Mesa Memory Booth, trivia games, opporSEE Mesa College, page 4
Ariel view of San Diego Mesa College, 1966
Save the Date, Mark Your Calendars - Thursday, October 24th Workshop #3 of the Morena Blvd. Station Area Planning Study (MBSAPS) Workshop #3 will include a presentation of the findings/recommendations and solicit input from stakeholders and community members on the elements to incorporate in the preferred land use/mobility alternative.This alternative will be included in the Draft MBSAPS, which will be reviewed by City staff and community stakeholders prior to preparation of the final report. Final rec-
ommendations will be implemented through the follow-on grant awarded by SANDAG in June 2013. The MBSAPS will be used to guide future community plan policy changes to support transit-oriented development in the Morena Blvd. Station Area. The Study will help guide the creation of a transit-friendly, economically strong community within San Diego. The two previous
workshops gathered information from the community on existing conditions within the study area and initial concepts related to land use and mobility improvements. City staff and the planning team have been refining the land use and mobility concepts to include full land use/traffic analysis, draft urban design guidelines, and economic analysis.
Now that we are reaching the home stretch the community’s participation is more important than ever so please help us in getting the word out to your colleagues, friends and neighbors within the study area. Community input is crucial. Thursday, October 24th from 6 to 8:30 pm at the San Diego Humane Society (Classroom) located at 5500 Gaines St, San Diego, CA 92110.
2 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
How to Sell Your Home Without an Agent and Save the Commission If you've tried to sell your home yourself, you know that the minute you put the "For Sale by Owner" sign up, the phone will start to ring off the hook. Unfortunately, most calls aren't from prospective buyers, but rather from every real estate agent in town who will start to hound you for your listing. Like other "For Sale by Owners", you'll be subjected to a hundred sales pitches from agents who will tell you how great they are and how you can't possibly sell your home by yourself. After all, without the proper information, selling a home isn't easy. Perhaps you've had your home on the market for several months with no offers from qualified buyers.This can be a very frustrating time, and many homeowners have given up their dreams of selling their homes themselves. But don't give up until you've read a new report entitled "Sell Your
Own Home" which has been prepared especially for home-sellers like you. You'll find that selling your home by yourself is entirely possible once you understand the process. Inside this report, you'll find 10 inside tips to selling your home by yourself which will help you sell for the best price in the shortest amount of time.You'll find out what real estate agents don't want you to know. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800-474-3292 and enter 1317.You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to learn how you really can sell your home yourself.
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Win this Clash at Clairemont 7 Autographed Deck Save the Date Raffle Drawing October 19th 3pm at Clairemont Skate Park by Chris O’Connell
Back in June I purchased two decks while attending the Clash at Clairemont 7, one to hang in my office and the other to give back to a cause for fundraising. At the time, I was not sure what the cause would be but the intent all along was to raise money. Now here we are for the chance to win this very limited edition Clash at Clairemont 7 deck. $2 per raffle ticket
or for $10 you get a boards length of tickets. All proceeds from the raffle will be evenly split between the Krause Family Skate & Bike Park (i.e. Clairemont Skate Park) & Grind for Life. To purchase tickets stop in at the
Felix Arguelles, Nora Vasconcellos, Chad Bartie, Manny Santiago, Elliot Sloan, Amelia Brodka,Austin Poynter, Darren Jenkins, Rich Lopez,Adrian Demain, Neil Mims & Andy MacDonald Raffle will be held October 19th 3
skate park office: 3401 Clairemont Drive, 92117 The deck is signed by many who partook in the festivities at Clash 7: Zach Miller, Mike Owen, Mimi Knoop, Dave Bachinsky, Duane Peters, Josh Borden,
pm at the Clairemont Skate Park. Thank you Charlie & Laz at the Clairemont skate park for helping to organize the raffle and Schmiddy at sk8ology who expedited the Clash at Clairemont 7 logo etching.
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
Clairemont Square Trivia? What business in Clairemont Town Square has been going strong for over 12 years? What business used to be located in what is now a nail salon? What business used to be where Kragen Auto Parts was? For the answer see page blank (page 7).
Rose Creek Bikeway Project Open House Please join us for the last of three community meetings on the Rose Creek Bikeway Project. Come to the open house-style meeting to see the preferred design for this important regional bikeway connection.
Thursday, October 17, 2013 6-8 p.m. Mission Bay High School Library 2475 Grand Avenue San Diego, CA 92109
Have a hot news tip? An idea for a story? Call or email 858 752 9779 • info@clairemonttimes.com
The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 3
4 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
Beyond Xeriscaping
Mesa College
by Susan Lewitt
tunity drawings, the Mesa Pep Band, and more. General admission is $8; students $5 or free with valid AS sticker. Game time is 6:00 p.m. Former cheerleader and current Ms. Senior San Diego 2012, Jeanne Lenhart, of Pacific Beach, is the alumni honoree at this year’s Homecoming at Mesa College. Lenhart, a Mesa volleyball player and 1966 graduate transferred to SDSU (then San Diego State College). Following a career as a teacher in San Diego City Schools, Lenhart later returned to Mesa to take interior design classes, obtaining an Interior Design certificate in 1993. Now semi-retired, Lenhart still plays volleyball three times a week in South Mission Beach and in the US Open Nationals. Her dance routine helped her to win this year’s Ms. Senior San Diego crown. Lenhart will be on the field for the traditional pre-game coin toss and address the crowd during half-time, when members of the current Mesa Women’s Volleyball team will do the popular t-shirt toss. Alumnus Jeremy Sanders is organizing a meet-up and tour of the campus at 6:00 p.m.,Thursday, Oct.17. If you haven’t been to Mesa lately, you’ll be amazed that many of the 1960s flattopped buildings have been replaced by state-of-the art learning facilities. The transformation is funded by a voter-approved $450 million dollar
Courtyard.The day is October 12 and it runs from 11 am to 3 pm. Members According to the National Wildlife start at 10 am.You will have a wide Federation:“When non-native plants selection of draught tolerant native are used, they often plants.After estabtimes upset the delilishment, most of cate balance of a these plants require local ecosystem and far less water than sometimes even outthe exotics. compete native If you miss the species to the point sale,Tree of Life of extinction. Nursery is in in San Wildlife benefits Juan Capistrano and more when native Las Pilitas Nursery is plant communities in Escondido. Call remain intact, or are first and carpool restored to their natthere. Mission Hills ural habitats, providNursery has natives ing the best source and Home Depot of food for wildlife.” Flowering shrub from a garden included in will order native (Garden for Wildlife; the California Native Plant Society's Native plants for you. If you Garden Tour of 2012. Making Wildlife need help with your Habitat at home, plants, CNPS has National Wildlife Federation) This also meetings on the 3rd Tuesday of the applies to our gardens because invamonth, in Balboa Park, Casa Del Prado sive plants have ways of spreading far room 104 starting at 6:30 pm.The topand wide, by seeds roots and runners. ics are informative and there are usualPlease use native plants when land- ly many experts available to give scaping your yard.There are many advice. Please also make sure all plants good sources to consider.The you buy are not sprayed with bee California Native Plant Society (CNPS) killing pesticides. Native Plant Sale will have many CNPS Plant Sale Information: plants from herbs to trees from the Date: Oct 12, 2013 Tree of Life Nursery.These will be Location: Balboa Park, Casa Del great in your garden with a little planPrado Theater Courtyard ning.The location is the Balboa Park, Time: 11 am to 3 pm (sale starts 10 in the Casa Del Prado Theater am for members)
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Continued from page 1
Ms. Senior San Diego 2012
capital bond improvement plan. Interested persons can sign up for the tours by calling 619-388-2285. Homecoming activities will run from Homecoming 2013 through October 2014.To be placed on the list for anniversary celebration events, email: lheil@sdccd.edu.
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The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 5
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
EMERGENCY NUMBERS LOCAL USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS Sponsored by
EMERITUS at CLAIREMONT SAFETY Police 911 Fire 911
Non emerg 619.531.2000 Non emerg 619.533.4300
TRANSPORTATION MTS iTN On the Go
877.232.7433 619.282.0073 858.637.3000
USEFUL Post Office Sr. Center AARP AAA VA Hospital Social Security Medicaid Alzheimer’s Assoc
Former State Assemblywoman Saldaña Endorses David Alvarez for Mayor by Daniel J. Smiechowski
Clairemont found itself at ground zero of San Diego's Mayoral contest on Wednesday September 18 as pop-
ulist candidate and current City Council Member David Alvarez was endorsed by long time educator and former State Assemblywoman Lori Saldana. Saldana, a graduate of Madison High School and longtime local resident had this to say about Mr.Alvarez:
"I'm proud to announce my support for David Alvarez for Mayor. His commitment to standing up for our communities tells me he's the best choice,” Saldaña said. "David has a strong record of supporting neighborhoods and protecting the environment, and San Diegans can count on him to do the same as Mayor." Council member Alvarez has long been a champion of neighborhood improvements including improved infrastructure, increased library hours and well maintained parks and recreation centers. The mild mannered candidate was approachable and unpretentious in his visit to our community. Mr.Alvarez is clearly a man of the people and is a candidate of great character. His vision is one of a great San Diego moving for-
ward with pride into the Twenty First Century. The Councilman had this to say in reply to Saldana's endorsement. “I’m extremely grateful to have Lori’s endorsement in my candidacy for Mayor,” Said Alvarez.“She’s a strong leader, standing up for quality of life and a sustainable future for all of San Diego’s families.” There appears to be four major candidates in the race to lead City Hall with the lone Republican being Kevin Faulconer. If no single candidate wins over fifty percent of the vote on November 19, there will be a runoff among the top two vote getters. Daniel J. Smiechowski has been a resident of Clairemont since 1967 and may be reached at smiechowskid@aol.com
858.273.0558 858.483.5100 619.641.7020 800.400.4222 858.552.8585 800.772.1213 800.541.5555 800.272.3900
Volunteers Needed Volunteers needed to escort elderly to non-emergency medical doctor’s appointment, grocery store, pharmacy, etc., in the Linda Vista and surrounding areas 2 times per week. Must be bilingual in English/ Spanish or English/Vietnamese we asking for a 6 month commitment and must undergo training beforehand. Small stipend and mileage offered. If interested, please call Stella @ (858) 278-0771, ext. 3023.
6 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
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OCTOBER LIBRARY EVENTS NORTH CLAIREMONT BRANCH 4616 CLAIREMONT DRIVE, 92117 SPECIAL EVENTS Guitarist Fred Beneditti Plays The Beatles 10/22 6pm A popular and versatile musician, Fred Benedetti will present an all-Beatles program using a baritone guitar, a ukulele, and a standard guitar. The concert will include favorites such as Blackbird, Strawberry Fields Forever,The Fool on the Hill, Eleanor Rigby, Something, Here Comes the Sun, and many more! All ages welcome. Spooky Science with Krypton Yvonne 10/28 4pm Come help Krypton Yvonne learn about the spectacular science behind all things “spooky”! A dancing skeleton, amazing optical illusions, and a vampire bat drinking contest are just the beginning of this wacky, fact-filled and hilarious science show. Geared toward kids of all ages. RECURRING EVENTS Monthly Book Sale 10/12 9:30am-2pm In addition to the Daily Book Sale, the Friends of NCL hold an expanded Monthly Book Sale every month. Used books, movies, and music for excellent prices. Proceeds benefit the NCL. Tales for Tails: Read to Animals 10/14 at 4pm Children are invited to improve their reading skills by reading aloud to therapy animals! Guinea pigs, rabbits, rats and sometimes cats & dogs are provided by the San Diego Humane Society. Appropriate for ages 5 and up with caregiver. Adult Book Club 10/16 at 6pm The Book Club will be discussing Caleb’s Crossing, by Geraldine Brooks Homework Help Wednesdays 6:30pm Need a hand with your homework? Students in grades K-12 can receive assistance with homework and reading. Tutors are adult volunteers. No registration required. Storytime for Toddlers and Preschoolers. Fridays at 10:30am Join us every Friday for a fun storytime with Ms. Katrina! This is an interactive storytime that includes books, songs, rhymes and movement. Sign Language Storytime Saturdays 10:30am
Storyteller Jennifer Duncan uses the excitement and fun of signing to enhance the reading of wellloved children's picture books. This interactive presentation also includes sing-alongs and bubble time and ends with a Q&A period. Geared toward ages 05 with caregiver.
CLAIREMONT BRANCH 2920 BURGENER BLVD, 92110 SPECIAL EVENTS Homework Help K-12 Tuesdays 6:30-8 Tutors are adult volunteers, and no sign-up is required. After School Art Class by Robert 10/2 4pm Free art class for children ages 6-12 Adult Book Club 10/2 6pm The Book Club will be discussing The Selected Works of T. S. Spivet:A Novel, by Reif Larson. Author Talk with Rick Crawford 10/9 6:30pm He will talk about his book San Diego Yesterday and discuss local history. Mr. Crawford is the Supervisor of Special Collections at the San Diego Public Library. He is the former Archives Director at the San Diego Historical Society, where he also edited the Journal of San Diego History for nine years. Born in Long Beach in 1953, he has been a San Diegan since 1973. He has degrees in History (San Diego State University) and Library Science (San Jose State University). In his thirty-year career as a historian and archivist, he has written extensively on local history, including the books The Way We Were in San Diego (2011), Stranger Than Fiction:Vignettes of San Diego History (1995), and over 170 articles for the San Diego Union-Tribune. Friends of the Library Meeting 10/16 4 PM Free Concert Neave Trio 10/30 6:30pm All rising young soloists, the members of the Neave Trio have enjoyed international concert and competition success. Graduates of the Eastman, Manhattan and Longy Schools of Music and the Chopin Academy in Moscow, violinist Anna Williams, cellist Mikhail Veselov, and pianist Toni James have enjoyed international acclaim for recital and festival performances in the United States, South America, UK and Europe, performing in some of the world’s finest concert halls. Recent appearances include recitals in New York’s Carnegie Hall and Weill Recital Hall, Boston’s Jordan Hall and Rochester’s Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre. RECURRING EVENTS Story Times • Tuesdays 6pm Bilingual storytime Spanish/English with Karina • Thursdays 10:30 “BabySign Storytime,” a storytime with sign language for children ages 0-2 and their caregivers, with storyteller and sign language instructor Jennifer Duncan.
• Fridays10:30 a.m. the library hosts Preschool Storytime with Miss Fran.
BALBOA BRANCH 4255 MT.ABERNATHY AVE, 92117 SPECIAL EVENTS Paws to Read 10/8 & 10/22 6:00 pm Therapy dogs provide a positive and fun environment for children to practice reading. Balboa Library Book Club 10/15 12:30pm The Book Club will discuss the One Book One San Diego selection, Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver. Family Fun Time: Literature Comes to Life 10/18 3:30pm Be a part of this story theater production! Audience members will have the chance to dress in costume and act out a part in stories such as “Big Pumpkin” and “The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything”. RECURRING EVENTS Homework Help Tuesdays 6pm Free Homework Help for Elementary grades. Stories with Susan Wednesdays 6:00 pm Miss Susan reads well-loved children’s stories. Come hear your favorites, or discover something new! Preschool Activity Hour Thursdays 10am Miss Linda will help young preschool children receive the basics of learning, language and reading skills. Parents and caregivers will have some time to network and learn tips for helping their children get a great start on learning. “Wee Reads” Baby & Toddler Storytime Fridays 10:30 am Storytime for our youngest patrons! Plenty of adult/child interaction, songs, stories and play Kids Krafternoons Saturdays 1:00 pm Let your creativity run wild with a fun craft activity! Children under 8 welcome with an adult or older sibling.
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 7
Religious Directory Clairemont Lutheran Church www.clairemontlc.org 4271 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117 Sunday Worship Times 8:30, 10:00 (English) & 11:30 am (Spanish) Sunday School for kids 9:45am Holy Cross Lutheran Church & Preschool www.holycrossword.com 3450 Clairemont Drive, San Diego, CA 92117 Church (858) 273-2886 Preschool (858) 273-7768 Sunday Worship 9:00 am Pathway Christian Fellowship www.pathwayonline.org 3811 Mount Acadia Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111 Phone (858) 277-3027 Join us Sundays at 10 am
Clairemont Square Trivia Answer The UPS Store We have moved again, same great service, same great team just a new location. 3952 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Close to Michaels & Petco
Joyful Living Spiritual Center www.joyfullivingsandiego.org Services and classes at the LiveWell Center 4425 Bannock Avenue, San Diego 92117 Sunday services and Junior Church at 10 am Are you ready for a happier, healthier and more abundant life? St. David's Episcopal Church www.saintdavidschurch.com 5050 Milton Street, San Diego CA 92110 Sunday Worship Times: 8:00 am Traditional • 10:30am Contemporary For information on promoting your place of worship in the Religious Directory please call or email Chris O’Connell, Publisher (858) 752-9779 chris@clairemonttimes.com
8 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
Mayor’s Update by Todd Gloria
Interim Mayor, City of San Diego It’s been a distracting and difficult summer for San Diegans. It was my intention to spend the summer months focused on what I cared about: improving my Council District Three neighborhoods, advocating for the Convention Center expansion, preparing for the opening of our new Downtown library, and collaborating with community leaders on the Balboa Park Centennial. In July, our city was thrust into a national and international media spotlight with people all over - from Talmadge to Sacramento, from Dallas to London - shaking their heads and asking,“What is going on in San Diego?” I assumed the office of Mayor on August 30, and there’s much work to be done until a new mayor is elected. Between now and then I’m focusing my efforts in three main areas. My first order of business is a topdown review of all city departments. I want to know what is working, what isn’t, and what our employees need to better serve our neighborhoods. And I need to make sure contracts which were previously stalled since January get signed, so critical work for this city is getting done. My second order of business will be a restructuring of the Mayor’s staff and creating a new culture on the 11th
floor where folks are excited to come to work. I want to ensure my staff is working efficiently and productively in an environment where they feel empowered and inspired to strengthen neighborhoods. My third order of business is to vastly improve the communications coming from the Mayor’s office and city departments. When people don’t have the information they need, they’re left to their own imaginations. I don’t intend to let folks imagine what’s happening in our city. I intend to tell them. I also need to hear your ideas on how we can improve neighborhoods. To that end, I would encourage you to contact my office: 619-236-6330 or toddgloria@sandiego.gov. You can also connect with me on Facebook and on Twitter. I inherited a mess that I will fix. Please know, however, that during the summer’s news conferences, taped statements, and rampant Twitter chatter about what was wrong with San Diego, our city employees were working hard to provide important and necessary services we rely on to live safely and comfortably. Looking ahead, I would ask for your patience and partnership. I know this is a tall request as the white noise of cynicism about our city’s government has become a deafening roar these past three months. I would also ask you to stay engaged and return to the polls on November 19 to vote for a new mayor. San Diegans didn’t deserve the former mayor and now isn’t the time to become a spectator in our democratic process. Don’t give up on San Diego. With your patience and participation, we will remind the nation why we are America’s Finest City.
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Help Preserve Open Space The Marian Bear Recreation Council meets the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 PM in the Friendship Center at the North Clairemont Recreation Center 4425 Bannock Ave.
NEXT MEETING OCTOBER 9TH Join us in our efforts to protect and enjoy natural resources in the canyons surrounding our community. For more information visit our website at
www.marianbearreccouncil.com or
Contact Park Ranger Tracey Walker at 858-581-9952
Community Meetings Open to the Public CLAIREMONT TOWN COUNCIL 10/3/13 (1st Thursday of the month) 7:00 PM Cadman Elementary Cafeteria 4370 Kamloop Ave, 92117
CLAIREMONT COMMUNITY PLANNING GROUP 10/15/13 (3rd Tuesday of the month) • 6:30 PM LiveWell Senior Center 4425 Bannock Ave, 92117
LINDA VISTA TOWN COUNCIL 10/17/13 (3rd Thursday of the month) • 6:30 PM Baha’i Faith Center 6545 Alcala Knolls Drive, 92111
LINDA VISTA PLANNING GROUP 10/28/13 (4th Monday of the month) • 5:30 PM Linda Vista Public Library 2160 Ulric St, 92111
Have a hot news tip? An idea for a story? Call or email 858 752 9779 • info@clairemonttimes.com
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 9
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10 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
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Fast Facts PARKING IS HORRIBLE. SAVE TIME AND LOOK FOR STREET PARKING.
By Stella Monde
O’Brien’s American Pub The sausages, sliced lengthwise, had that nice crunch you expect when you bite into a juicy and savory hot link. We also ordered a Corned Beef and Swiss sandwich with a side of garlic fries. The sandwich had layers of corned beef and swiss cheese with lettuce, tomato and red onion on marbled rye. We ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger with a side of onion rings. But, what we got looked more like their Beer Cheese Burger. What is a beer cheese burger you ask? The menu says white cheddar and ipa beer cheese. But it looked like orange cottage cheese. The onion rings were really good though! I have it on good authority that the Papa’s Patty Melt is a must-try. Maybe next time!
Brewer's Plate
Chances are you already know about this local brew pub that I am reviewing this month, O’Brien’s American Pub, located in a nondescript strip mall in the center of Kearny Mesa amongst all the various Asian restaurants. O’Brien’s has been around since 1994 and was one of the first pubs to have an extensive selection of beers on tap and in bottles. Since 2003, the owners have been Tom and Lindsey Nickel. As a former World Beer Cup champion brewer, I
would guess Tom knows a thing or two about beer. While they do have all the typical pub grub ranging from burgers, wings, jalapeno poppers and garlic fries, the main attraction is their extensive beer selection.
MONDAY’S SPECIAL: $10 PITCHERS FROM 4:30-10:30 PM SATURDAY AND SUNDAY: 10% OFF ALL BOTTLES (INCLUDES TO-GO!) O’BRIEN’S IS AN OFFICIAL US SOCCER BAR – COME WATCH ALL THE USA SOCCER GAMES. OPEN FOR ALL CHARGERS GAMES, TOO. O’BRIEN’S AMERICAN PUB 4646 CONVOY ST. SAN DIEGO, CA 92111 (858) 715-1745 WWW.OBRIENSPUB.NET
Nevertheless, regulars go for the
My friend and I ordered the Brewer’s Plate which featured tasty grilled hot links and fresh fruit, cheese and crackers. It’s a beer drinker’s take on the meat and cheese plate for wine drinkers and it was oh-so-delicious.
Corned Beef & Swiss Sandwich
Beer Cheese Burger
laid-back vibe and ice cold brew. For me, the Alesmith Nut Brown hit the spot. At any given time, there are at least 20 different beers on tap. I’m sure you’ll be able to find something to satisfy your thirsty palate. Sign up for their newsletter and hear about upcoming beer events and specials! It’s nice to see that a local beer and
burger hangout has stood the test of time. With new microbreweries and brew pubs popping up left and right, O’Brien’s has remained a steadfast local favorite with a diverse beer offering. Come on by and decide for yourself. If you would like to suggest a place that I should review, email: stella.monde@clairemonttimes.com.
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 11
Welcoming October! by Kevin Casillo
October is the month for those born under the zodiac sign of Libra; the birthstone is the opal which actually means “to see a change in color”. This is just what we see during the month of October.Whether you’re in the Northwest or in the Northeast spectacular color is everywhere. Here in San Diego a drive out to Julian is a must with a stop at Santa Isabel for some of the best fresh baked breads and muffins. But for me nothing compares to the Northeast. Of course that may be because the Northeast is where my hometown is located.And if you’re like me you’ll be armed with your camera hoping to find that perfect shot of Fall color. It’s not always easy to get these shots, many obstacles often get in the way, like cars, people and unfortunately litter. Plastic bags hanging off branches, floating and stuck on logs on what would otherwise be the most spectacular shot. So can we please ban the plastic bag? But that I’ll save for another story. For all of us that grew up in a place where seasonal changes meant going from cutoffs to rubber boots and mittens you’ll agree Fall is one of the most spectacular seasons. Color so vibrant it’s like a dream. Ponds, rivers and gentle streams turn cold and black only to paint magnificent scenery onto its reflection. Looking for paths we would walk for hours amazed at the sights we would see.The sound of black crows echoing as their feathers flutter through the trees high above our heads, the scent of damp rich soil, and the crisp sound of twigs that would snap and crackle under foot as we made our way through. White
Maine
Birch trees with leaves of yellow and 100 year old elms with golden hue and Sugar Elm trees proudly displaying their leaves of rich royal reds and burgundy. Leaves drift from their branches to cover the ground in a quilted pattern of brilliant shades of gold and yellow so bright it seems to light the sky. Occasional family of ducks floats along, happily quacking a warm hello or is it a last farewell? White tailed rabbits nibbling on tall grass as squirrels stand cautious as they gather the last of the seasons offering scurrying back and forth trying not to be spotted by Hawks and the red tailed fox. For they too know what Fall means, the end of free food and warm weather. Even the air changes, it just seems fresher, cleaner and more alive. Something about Fall, there’s something about this season everything changes. This is the best time of year to walk the old colonial towns of
Kennebunk, Maine
coastlines void of tourists make for an easy stroll as waves surrender along
Covered bridge.
Massachusetts, Newport Rhode Island, Maine and New Hampshire. Rugged
the sandy shores. Lone Seagulls stand guard keeping a watchful eye on his stretch of the beach. Small country shops changing gears from a busy summer season are now welcoming a different type of tourist. No longer dripping in sunscreen and tanning lotion, these tourists really like mixing with the locals and now seek all things apple. Homemade apple pies, apple cider, apple soaps, apple scented candles, apple honey, and even a pumpkin pie. All grown locally on a family apple orchard that shares a pumpkin patch and made by local famers and sold to local shopkeepers.These folks sell the real McCoy; it’s all fresh and lingers in your heart for a lifetime.The only thing better is a warm mouthwatering heavenly baked crunchy and thick apple oat filled, baked by my Mom Josephine, apple crisp dripping with vanilla ice cream. Honestly it doesn’t
get any better than this. Salem is one of those places we all love to love and love to hate. We love it because it serves to fill our heads with ideas of grandeur and mystical beliefs. People of all ages flock to this small New England town in hopes of seeing a witch or at least the burning of one. But for me it just sort of reminds me,“it only takes one to point a finger” and you too can be accused only to hang from a tree. Or worse boiled in oil and set a flame.Ahhhh the puritan age, so romantic. Hard to believe they fought the British for freedom. So if you’re in the mood for a witch hunt, and always wanted to dance on a Witches grave or the grave of a Warlock, then Salem is your place. Go ahead get out and just do it. We’ve recently had our own version of a witch hunt (ooops) but I prefer to capture nature at its finest, old covered bridges.These proud old centurions can still be found like the one pictured here. Built in 1885 and is only one of a few remaining, sadly others have been lost to time and storm. Those that remain still standing strong as they welcome motorists into town. Fall the magnificent, even the air changes. Fall seems fresher, cleaner and more alive.There's just something about Fall. If you would like to see more photos, please visit my website at: www.hotshots360.smugmug.com
12 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
September Crime Report Possess Controlled Substance 5200 Balboa Ave. Theft 5500 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Break-In 5100 Santa Fe St. Vandalism 4500 Limerick Ave. Commercial Burglary 5500 Balboa Ave. Vandalism 6200 Beadnell Way Vehicle Break-In 3100 Denver St. Assault 5300 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Theft 3600 Earnscliff Pl. Theft 4700 Clairemont Dr. Theft 3900 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Fraud 5100 Lehrer Dr. Residential Burglary 3100 Luna Ave. Vehicle Theft 3100 Old Bridgeport Way Vandalism 4200 Mt.Abernathy Ave. Vehicle Break-In 4900 Almayo Court Vehicle Theft 5800 Castleton Dr.
Vehicle Theft 6600 Forum St. Theft 4200 Genesee Ave. Residential Burglary 6400 Mt.Ada Rd. Commercial Burglary 6100 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Theft 3100 Mooney St. Fraud 5800 Mt.Alifan Dr. Residential Burglary 4100 Mt.Alifan Pl. Residential Burglary 3100 Clairemont Dr. Vandalism 4300 Mt. Castle Ave. Vehicle Break-In 3900 Clairemont Dr. Vehicle Theft 5800 Mt.Alifan Dr. Vehicle Break-In 5000 San Aquario Dr. Vehicle Theft 4200 Genesee Ave. Vehicle Theft 5100 Santa Fe St. Residential Burglary 4500 Limerick Way Vandalism 3500 Gaylord Ct. Commercial Burglary 4800 Pacifica Dr.
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Commercial Burglary 5600 Balboa Ave. Vehicle Break-In 6000 Castleton Dr. Vehicle Theft 3800 Mt.Albertine Ave. Vehicle Break-In 4600 Mt. Bigelow Dr. Fraud 5800 Mt.Alifan Dr. Vehicle Break-In 4700 Mt. Durban Dr. Battery 4200 Genesee Ave. Vehicle Theft 3500 Mt. Everest Blvd. Battery 5500 Balboa Ave. Battery 4500 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Vehicle Theft 4200 Cannington Dr. Commercial Robbery 5400 Balboa Ave. Vandalism 5200 Conrad Ave. Residential Burglary 4900 Mt.Ashmun Dr. Battery 3000 Clairemont Dr. Battery 3300 3300 Cowley Way Commercial Robbery 4700 Clairemont Dr. Battery 3800 Camto Aguilar Vehicle Break-In
www.clairemonttimes.com 3000 Massasoit Ave. Vehicle Break-In 3500 Monair Dr. Vehicle Break-In 4200 Genesee Ave. Vandalism 3500 Mt.Acadia Blvd. Assault 4400 Manitou Way Residential Burglary 3000 Clairemont Dr. Commercial Burglary 4900 Diane Ave. Residential Burglary 3600 Fireway Dr. Commercial Burglary 4700 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Vehicle Break-In 4200 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Vandalism 4100 Willamette Ave. Vehicle Break-In 4900 Pacifica Dr. Vehicle Theft 3700 Mario Pl. Residential Burglary 3600 Mt.Abraham Ave. Vehicle Theft 6500 Beadnell Way Vehicle Theft 3300 Jemez Dr. Vehicle Theft 3100 Cowley Way Residential 5100 Bellvale Ave. Battery 4800 Clairemont Dr.
Founding Publisher..............................................Chris O’Connell Graphic Designer............................................................Elaine Hall Contributors.................................................................Kevin Casillo Daniel J. Smiechowski Stella Monde
Have a hot news tip? An idea for a story? Call or email 858 752 9779 • info@clairemonttimes.com
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 13
Students from Montgomery Middle School in Linda Vista Participate in The San Diego Art Institute “Youth Artist Gallery” at Balboa Park
For some students at Montgomery Middle School their hard work paid off as their photographs were on display first at the Student Life Pavilion at the University of San Diego then on to Balboa Park. Collaboration between University of San Diego, Bayside Community Center and Montgomery Middle school made it all happen. Back in April the students attended a photography workshop at Bayside taught by Artist Brian Moreland. Students learned about different camera features and picture taking, from spacing to color to angles. They were taught how pictures really can tell a story through the photographer’s eyes. Each student then went out into their community and began capturing images. They then had to pick their one favorite picture for public display.
Their artwork is on exhibit until October 6, 2013 at Balboa Park. When the exhibit is over their art will be proudly displayed in the halls of Montgomery Middle School.
CHIEFTAIN FOOTBALL SCHOLARS The Clairemont High School football program is not just about football. The CHS Football coaches focus on the teams’ academic achievements as carefully as they do on the achievements of our young athletes on the field. Every year we help send off many of our football seniors to college, university or a technical school with a strong, disciplined and determined outlook on life.After the rigorous effort they have learned to put forth on the field, the task of secondary education is not so daunting.
Some of our recent successes include Chris Bonner – Colorado State, Justin Waney – University of Chicago, Ryan Beaubien – University of Santa Barbara, Nick Espinoza – University of Washington, Puget Sound and Jason Mos – Cal Poly. These are just a few and our list continues to grow. In fact, this school year, 2013-2014, our coaches are being pro-active and monitoring each player’s progress in school at the start of the academic year and
Dan Siskowic Memorial Scholarship In memory of Dan Siskowic who helped found the Clairemont Football Booster club, we provide a scholarship in his honor every year.The scholarship goes to the scholar athlete that exhibits the traits that Dan always held in high esteem:A player with discipline, sportsmanship, and academic excellence.
Clairemont Football Booster Club 2002 - 2013
Check out our: Facebook page: Clairemont FB Boosters • Website: www.clairemontfootball.com
weekly going forth. With this plan and their previous efforts, combined, the football program recognizes the need for academic discipline in our Chieftain athletes and its importance in our children’s future.To reinforce this focus, at the end of the school year the coaches select, and the Booster Club provides, a senior athlete a substantial scholarship to help offset some of the costs of secondary education.
Past Winners 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
James Coppa Mike Pena Jon Schwartz Ryan Murphy Brian Wallace Mark Grzeskowiak Matt Rogers Chris Bonner Ryan Beaubien Jason Mos
14 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
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PET PROFILE
Kaia
Sasha
Cooper
Breed F/ Rhodesian Ridgeback – Smooth Coat
Breed F/ Lhasa Apso
Breed M/ Rhodesian Ridgeback/Lab Mix
Adoption Date Labor Day 2009
Adoption Date 2/29/2000
Adoption Date 8/22/2010
Place of Birth Ukiah, CA Mendocino County Animal Shelter
Place of Birth Denver, CO Adopted from Denver Dumb Friends League
Place of Birth Ukiah, CA - Adopted from Mendocino County Animal Shelter
Likes Sunshine & Heat, when it’s too hot going to her den under birds of paradise & bushes in the backyard
Likes Food, Howling, Car Rides, Going to the park & sitting under a tree watching people & dogs go by.
Likes Following Sasha around, Swimming, Morning Jogs, Camp Run A Mutt,The Beach, & Exploring.
Dislikes The water
Dislikes The ocean
Dislikes None
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OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
The Clairemont Times • October 2013 • 15
BUSINESS/SERVICE DIRECTORY CARPET & TILE CLEANING
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24 Hour Emergency Flood Service CALL
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ESTATE ATTORNEY
TREE SERVICE
TNT & Family Tree Service Trimming/Lacing/Shaping/Palms Hazardous Tree Removals/ Stump Grinding Fire Breaks/Yard Cleanups Firewood & Mulch Available Year Round
Tony Dahl (619) 847 7467 (cell) • (619) 441 5931 (office) CA State Contractor License #968762 • Insured & Bonded
GRAPHIC DESIGN
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ELAINE HALL GRAPHIC DESIGN Bringing Your Vision to Light With over 30 years experience in the graphic design industry, I can help you present your business, service, or organization in the best possible LIGHT!
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Free and informative facts for all residents wishing to shape development in our neighborhood. www.careaboutclairemont.com
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WHERE TO PICK UP THE THE CLAIREMONT TIMES ALBERTSONS AAA AVATI SALON BAY HO SHOPPING CENTER BAY PARK COFFEE BAYSIDE COMMUNITYCENTER BEST WESTERN BARBER SHOPS BLARNEY STONE CAFFE VICINO BY THE BAY CANYON VILLAS CARRIE’S DAY SPA CAR STEREO CITY CENTURY 21 CHILI’S CLAIREMONT CAR WASH CLAIREMONT CHURCH OF GOD CLAIREMONT LIQUOR CLAIREMONT LUTHERAN CHURCH COCO’S CORONADO BREWING CO COUNTRY WAFFLE CVS
DENNY’S DISCOUNT TIRE DUNK’N DOGS DOGWASH ELBOW ROOM FOOD & COCKTAILS EL REY TACO SHOP EMERITUS at CLAIREMONT EZ LUBE FAST FUEL SERVICE STATION FIRST CHOICE PROPERTIES FOOD 4 LESS GIGI’S SALON HOLY CROSS LUTHERAN CHURCH THE HUNGRY STICK IHOP JIMBO’S LIQUOR JOHN’S SHOE REPAIR JULIE’S CAFÉ & DELI KEIL’S KWIK KLEEN CAR WASH LA TIENDITA LAUNDROMATS LIBRARIES LIVEWELL SAN DIEGO
MASSAGE ENVY McDONALD’S MESA COLLEGE MISSION BAY TRAFFIC SCHOOL MISSION FEDERAL C.U. OASIS REST & LOUNGE O’REILLY AUTO PARTS PADRE GOLD PAPA’S PIZZA PARK & REC CENTERS PAR LIQUOR PATHWAY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP PETCO PETER D’S PETLAND GROOMING PLAYERS SPORTS BAR POSTAL ANNEX RITE AID RJ LIQUOR RESIDENCE IN MARRIOTT REUSABLE FINDS SAN DIEGO HARLEY
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16 • The Clairemont Times • October 2013
OCTOBER 2013 - CELEBRATING 2 YEARS!
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Locals Pitch in on Coastal Clean Up Day 2013 CLAIREMONT - MOUNT ETNA CANYON
Site Captains Colleen Emmenegger, Monica Bockman, and Tina Rysedorph San Diego CanyonLands Special thanks to Clairemont Cup Scout Pack 299, Girl Scout Troop 3866 & Junior Girl Scout Troop 3789, members of Madison High School Key Club as well as local neighbors Objective: Remove invasive iceplant & onion weed as well as trash & debris
LINDA VISTA - KELLY STREET PARK TECOLOTE CANYON
Site Captain Jane Westfall San Diego Canyonlands Special thanks to volunteers from San Diego Canyonlands, Bayside Community Center as well as local neighbors Objective: Remove invasive young eucalyptus, trash & debris
LINDA VISTA - TECOLOTE CREEK
Site Captain Katrina & Tom Berge Special thanks to volunteers from Girl Scout Troop 3763, Clairemont Boy Scout Troop 299 as well as local neighbors Objective: Clear the creek bed of invasive plants, trash & debris